'Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2' helps kick off Hunger Action Month

In an appropriate tie-in with the upcoming animated comedy "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2," Sony Pictures Animation took part in a nationwide food packing event Monday to help kick off Hunger Action Month in the U.S.

Organized by Feeding America, Hunger Action Month helps raise awareness of the 49 million people who continue to struggle with hunger in the U.S.

As part of the initiative Monday, Sony Pictures Animation helped with food packing events in Boston, Detroit, Phoenix, Atlanta and Los Angeles.

Appearing at the flagship event in LA, "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2" stars Bill Hader, Anna Faris and Will Forte helped spread the word about Hunger Action Month.

Donated fruits and vegetables by several promotional partners for the initiative will be distributed to local agencies, such as shelters, pantries and schools, and will help put more fresh produces on tables across the country, Sony Pictures Animation said in a press release.

"With September being Hunger Action Month, we really wanted to find a way to make a difference and use food to do that. 'Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2' is a fun adventure film, but ultimately, it's about an inventor trying to make the world a better place through food," George Leon, executive vice president of Sony Global Consumer Marketing said in a statement. "That's why we're thrilled by this kickoff event -- it's a great way for us to give back and to tie the message of our movie into a wonderful charitable effort."

In addition to Monday's events, Sony is teaming up with a variety of promotional partners to promote healthy eating and helping those who are food insecure; as well as teaming with eBay Giving Works! for charity auction items tied into "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2."

The charity auction includes a two-night trip to the film's Los Angeles premiere and event involving the film's cast and crew; and a private screening of the film where the winner can host up to 50 family members and friends at a local theater.

The movie opens in theaters nationwide in 2D and 3D on Sept. 27.

Read more about Feeding America's initiative at feedingamerica.org/ or facebook.com/FeedingAmerica.

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